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Charmain

Girl name · 10 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Charmain: 10 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 4 births in 1980.

Charmain is a variant of Charmian, ultimately derived from the Greek *charma*, meaning “delight” or “joy.” It’s best known through Shakespeare’s *Antony and Cleopatra*, where Charmian is Cleopatra’s loyal attendant. The name gained a distinctively Scottish air due to its popularity in the mid-20th century, and it has been used steadily north of the border. A notable bearer is Charmain Simpson, an Australian cricketer, though the name carries a literary gravitas that few other variants share. Interestingly, it’s sometimes confused with the more common “Charmaine,” but the “-main” spelling, while rarer, gives it a crisp, understated elegance. The name’s joyful root makes it a sweet choice for a happy, spirited child.